Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Service and 12 step #1

Last week was step 12, service. Serving others will help one loose themselves. I am not ready for this step. I am not ready to serve my husband, give him service without wanting anything in return, without an expected outcome. I work in the health care industry, and I am able to give my patients care, empathy, service, help through changing life circumstances, etc. Why can't I give that at home? To those that it matters the most? Leo and I were discussing that conundrum on the way home from support group. I think that I am able to do that because there are no "stings attached" with my patients. I can help them with the things that they need, and that is it, I don't see them again, my relationship with them is over. I know that they won't hurt me, or take undue advantage of me, I know that our relationship is temporary, and I can give freely of myself without the fear of being hurt. I can't do that at home, with Leo at least. I live in constant fear that he will hurt me, yet again, so I don't give freely of myself. I WANT to be able to serve him, I WANT to be able to give him the care and love that I am able to give my patients. I am not ready, so I am grateful to start at the beginning of the steps. I hope that I can find healing and be able to move forward with my life through this amazing 12 step program. I admitting that I have a problem, and that my life has become unmanageable, and I can't do this myself. Here goes nuthin :)

1 comment:

LDS Woman Dealing With Husband's Pornography Addiction said...

I read your entire blog last night after I saw your comment. I feel for you and your pain. It seems like you have been making a lot of progress lately. It is so good that you are willing to be introspective and look to change yourself. The knowledge about co-dependency has been very helpful for me too. In answer to your questions, yes we have several programs in our area and they have been helpful to attend. It is sad that so many people are plagued by the effects of this addiction, but I feel blessed that there are so many resources available for recovery.